Windows and doors

Windows

ENERGY STAR® certified performance compliance options

minimum Energy Rating (ER) of 34 or minimum ER 24 with a maximum U-value of 1.20.

Prescriptive compliance option

triple pane glazing;

minimum one low-e coating;

argon gas fill;

minimum 10 mm warm edge spacer;

non-metallic or thermally broken frame.

These minimum levels are mandatory for obtaining financing. Windows that do not meet these levels will not qualify for financing. In addition, the invoice accompanying the Loan Agreement and Completion Certificate must explicitly describe the window glazing units and frames. If this requirement is not met, we may terminate the Loan Agreement and shall have no further obligation to pay the Contractor/Retailer's invoice.

For a list of ENERGY STAR® certified windows eligible for financing under the Power Smart Residential Loan, visit the NRCan website.

Sliding doors

Proof of energy performance

Energy ratings must be determined in accordance with the 2009 or 2014 edition of A440.2-##/A440.3-## - Fenestration energy performance / User guide to CSA A440.2-##, Fenestration energy performance by an independent third party simulation provider. Acceptable simulation providers are listed within the Scopes of Accreditation of the Standards Council of Canada, and the ENERGY STAR® Canada list of acceptable Certification Organizations. The simulation report must be provided, or the relevant Listing under ENERGY STAR® Canada must be referenced.

Residential space heating equipment

CSA approved high efficiency condensing natural gas furnace with an AFUE of 92 per cent.

Maximum loan for the purchase and installation of a high efficiency natural gas furnace is $5,500, payable over a maximum 15-year term.

Includes all costs directly related to the furnace upgrade such as modifications to venting, ductwork plenums, gas piping, permits, and the thermostat.

Natural gas boiler to a CSA-approved unit with an AFUE of 82 per cent.

Maximum loan for the purchase and installation of a CSA-approved natural gas boiler is $7,500, payable over a maximum 15-year term.

Electric heating systems (instantaneous and storage type) and associated materials and equipment such as wiring, ductwork, valves, pumps, and motors.

Heat pump systems and associated materials and equipment. To be eligible for approval, a building heat loss calculation shall be submitted to Manitoba Hydro to determine appropriateness of sizing of the heat pump system. The heat loss calculation shall be performed to American Society of Heating, Refrigerating & Air Conditioning Engineers (ASHRAE) guidelines and good engineering practice.

Permanently connected supplementary space heating equipment.

Be aware that all changes to combustion equipment must be done in accordance with applicable codes. Changing a combustion appliance such as the heating system may require changes to the venting system and/or water heater. The furnace should be sized in accordance with good industry practice to ensure that units are not oversized as this can contribute to discomfort.

Insulation

Insulation is a smart investment. It is easier to upgrade insulation levels during a renovation project as it is less expensive and means less work later. If you are adding insulation to your home, remember that air sealing should be done first.

To improve your home's comfort and energy efficiency, insulate to Power Smart levels. Any insulation work done in the following areas must be done to the minimum Power Smart levels shown below:

Attic to a minimum of RSI 8.8 (R-50).

Basement walls to a minimum of RSI 4.2 (R-24).

Basement exterior perimeter skirt to a minimum of RSI 2.1 (R-12.5) when using combination interior/exterior insulation on basement.

Related building materials are also available for financing when the work is performed in conjunction with the addition of insulation. These measures include:

Vapour barrier material that conforms to Canadian General Standards Board (CGSB) standards.

Framing and fire protective (but not decorative) covering where required by building codes for perimeter basement walls being insulated. Fire protective covering includes gypsum, wallboard, or stucco. An example of decorative covering is wall panelling.

If you are upgrading your insulation, you may also be eligible for a rebate through the Home Insulation Program. Find out if you qualify and how to apply. Please note that approval for the Power Smart Residential Loan does not qualify you for a Home Insulation Program rebate.

Ventilation

During the heating season, humidity can build up in your home. Every house needs ventilation to remove stale, moist air, and bring in fresh air in a controlled manner. Proper ventilation is an investment in your home and in your family's health. Improve your home's air quality by installing qualifying ventilation equipment.

All ventilation equipment must have electrical approval for use in Canada and be listed in the current edition of the HVI-Certified Home Ventilating Products Directory (Home Ventilating Institute Division of Air Movement & Control Association).

Unitary fans:

must have minimum ratings of not less than 50 CFM delivery and not more than 3.0 sones noise level.

cannot have incandescent lighting kits.

Heat recovery ventilators must be sized and installed according to the current edition of the Heating, Refrigeration & Air Conditioning Institute (HRAI) Residential Mechanical Ventilation Design and Installation manual.